Elagabalus Denarius Ancient Roman Empire Silver Coin 218AD RIC 88a

Obverse: IMP ANTONINVS PIVS AVG, Head of Elagabalus, laureate, right
Reverse: INVICTVS SACERDOS AVG, Elagabalus, in Syrian priestly robes, standing left, sacrificing out of patera in right hand over tripod, holding club in left hand; behind tripod, bull lying down; in field, star
Date: c. 218-222 A.D.
ID: RIC IV Elagabalus 88a
Size: 18.5mm diameter, 3.02g weight
Composition: Silver

Elagabalus became emperor at the age of 14, following the assassination of Emperor Macrinus. He was notorious for his eccentric behavior, which included adopting the cult of the sun god Elagabal (also known as Elagabalus) as the state religion, hence the name he is now known by. 

The emperor's disregard for traditional Roman values and his preference for eastern customs led to increasing dissatisfaction among the Roman elite and the military. Amidst growing unrest, Elagabalus was deposed in 222 AD in favor of his cousin Severus Alexander. He and his mother were killed shortly thereafter. Elagabalus' reign is often seen as a period of turmoil and excess, marked by disregard for traditional Roman customs and institutions, though it's possible ancient writers fabricated many of the more sordid accusations against him.